The Robinson R44 Astro is a single-engined light utility helicopter for up to 1 crew and 3
passengers, powered by a single carburetted Lycoming O-540-F1B5 piston engine. The Robinson R44 is built by the Robinson Helicopter Company in Torrance, California.
Development of the Model R44 began in 1985. The first prototype flew on 31 March 1990 and the second
in January 1991. Sales efforts got under way in March 1992 at a base price of 235.000 US-Dollars.
FAA Type Certification for the R44 Astro was achieved on 10 December 1992, and the first Robinson R44 Astro was delivered in February 1993. In 2000,
the R44 Astro was replaced as the main production model by the R44 Raven with adjustable pedals and standard hydraulic controls.
Today the four-seat Model R44 is the world's most popular helicopter with over 6300 delivered to customers all
over the world. The ICAO Aircraft Type Designator for the R44 Astro helicopters is R44.

On 29 November 1999, Star Air Service BV reserved the registration PH-UUB in the Netherlands for the 1999-built
Robinson R44 s/n 0739. On 30 March 2000, the Robinson was registered PH-UUB with Flying Thorn BV, Eindhoven. On 9 February 2005,
Star Airservice Luchtvaartbedrijf V.o.F., Teuge, was registered as holder with Flying Thorn BV as owner.
In service with Star, Robinson R44 Astro PH-UUB was seen at a
temporary helispot in Klazienaveen, when operated for VakantieXperts
HeliXperience. On 9 December 2008, Robinson PH-UUB was registered with
Anti Gravity B.V,. Tubbergen, trading as Flyhome. After a period of
intensive collaboration with HeliCentre B.V., Breda: Flyhome and
HeliCentre merged. From 1 March 2010, the company continues as
HeliCentre B.V. with offices in Breda and Tubbergen. On 21 April 2010,
Robinson R44 Astro PH-UUB was registered with Az Industrials B.V., Barneveld.
On 13 July 2012, registration PH-UUB was cancelled as exported to Germany.
On 2 December 2012, the Robinson R44 Astro was registered N544MH in the USA with Hood Aircraft LLC, Longwood, Florida.